Michela Molina: "I train hard to combine the route and the mountains"

The Azuaya rider Michela Molina has fulfilled a schedule full of competitions this season. Her priority for 2022 is to be present at most national events and thus add experience for international appointments.

Molina, who graduated as a Clinical Psychologist at the University of Azuay (UDA), has so far achieved a podium finish in all the races she has participated in.

On February 13, in Santo Domingo de los Tsáchilas, she took first place in the first valid XCO National Championship (Olympic event), in the women's elite category. Five days later she traveled to Quito to be part of the National Road Championship.

In the Capital of the Republic, the triumphs did not stop and showing signs of his competitive level, he won a bronze medal in the time trial and a silver medal on the road (3h31m39s).

How do you evaluate your participation in the National Route held in Quito?
Since the previous year I prepared myself to attend this event. Thank God we achieved the goals we set out for. I am really happy with the results, since for several years I have not had competitions in this modality; Before this championship, my last participation in the route was when I was in the junior category (smiles). Even to participate in the time trial, the Team Orgullo Azuayo lent me an appropriate bicycle for the test, I lacked time to adapt; but we are satisfied. There will be things to improve to fight for the gold one another time.

With these results do you expect a call up to the national team?
The truth is yes. There are several details that are taken into account to integrate the Ecuador team, but in Quito a good role was performed, and we are sure that I have an opportunity to be in that select group of athletes. We talked with the cyclists in the national, to put together a women's team in the country. Currently, I am part of the Orbea Ecuador team.

What experiences did your participation in Quito leave you with?
A cycling party was lived. The people, the media and the competition were unforgettable, that motivates me to continue training on the route. Another moment I remember was when Richard Carapaz gave me directions when he was competing in the time trial. He also told me that if it is possible to make cycling a profession.